Layovers don’t have to be a dreaded part of travel. With a little planning and creativity, those hours between flights can turn into an adventurous, productive, or relaxing experience. Whether your layover is 2 hours or 12, there are plenty of ways to make the most of it. These are some tips to help you turn a boring wait into an opportunity.

Plan Ahead for Smooth Transitions

The key to enjoying a layover is preparation. Before you even set foot in the airport, research your options and come up with a plan. Start by checking the duration of your layover. If you have a shorter one, your best bet might be to stick close to your departure gate. Longer layovers, however, open up opportunities to explore beyond the terminal.

For international layovers, confirm whether you’ll need a visa to leave the airport. Websites like iVisa or the local consulate’s site can help you figure this out. Knowing your layover time and what’s possible beforehand will save you stress and wasted minutes once you're there.

Apps like GateGuru or FLIO offer useful insights about airport layouts, amenities, and restaurant reviews. You can also use Google Maps to scope out nearby city attractions if you’re considering venturing out.

Explore the Airport

Airports are not just places to pass through anymore; many are destinations in themselves. Major hubs like Singapore’s Changi Airport, Doha’s Hamad International, or Amsterdam’s Schiphol have turned layovers into miniature vacations. For example:

  • At Changi Airport, you can visit a butterfly garden, stretch out on a poolside deck, or catch a free movie.
  • Hamad International features luxury spas and art installations, including its famous giant teddy bear sculpture.
  • Schiphol offers museums and even a library for travelers looking to soak in some culture.

If you’re not in one of these extravagant airports, don’t worry. Many airports offer gyms, play areas for kids, or quiet spaces for meditation. Head to a premium lounge if you want to escape the crowds. Tools like LoungeBuddy can help you book access, even if you aren’t flying first class.

If you’re craving something unique, search for local specialties at airport restaurants. You might discover an incredible bowl of ramen in Japan or sample empanadas in South America. Use your layover as a sampling trip for food you’d otherwise have to fly far to try!

Head Out into the City

If you have at least 6-8 hours and can leave the airport, why not transform your layover into a mini-city adventure? Many airports are just a train, bus, or cab ride away from vibrant city centers. But before you go, be mindful of travel time, immigration lines, and security checks to ensure you make it back for boarding.

Here are a few ideas to inspire your quick outings:

  • A layover in Paris? Hop on the RER train to admire the Eiffel Tower or stroll along the Seine.
  • Stuck in Istanbul? Take a taxi to the Blue Mosque or sip Turkish coffee overlooking the Bosphorus.
  • If transiting through Bangkok, stretch your legs at the Grand Palace or shop for unique finds at Chatuchak Market.

City tours specifically designed for layover travelers can also maximize your time. Beijing, for example, offers organized tours to the Great Wall for passengers with long waits. Just check with the airport or airlines for details.

Stay Productive

For those who prefer to use their layover as a work or self-improvement session, airports can offer some surprising opportunities. Many hubs are equipped with free Wi-Fi, perfect for catching up on emails, finishing a project, or simply journaling about your trip.

To stay focused, download productivity apps like Forest (a timer that keeps you off your phone) or log into a co-working space if available. Look out for “work pods” in more modern airports, which provide desk space and charging stations for travelers who need to buckle down.

Layovers are also a great time to organize your travel photos, plan out the next leg of your trip, or even learn something new. Apps like Duolingo can help you pick up essential phrases in the local language of your destination, while video platforms like YouTube offer tutorials on practically any topic.

Prioritize Relaxation

Instead of scrolling endlessly on your phone, treat your layover as an opportunity to recharge—both figuratively and literally. Plug in your devices so your gadgets are ready for the next flight, but don’t forget to recharge yourself too.

Many airports have spas or massage chairs where you can relieve some travel tension. Others offer nap rooms or sleeping pods, which can be lifesavers during long-haul connections. Websites like Sleeping in Airports provide reviews and tips on the best places to get comfortable for a snooze.

If stress feels overwhelming, find a quiet area and practice mindfulness techniques. Apps like Headspace or Calm can guide you through short meditation sessions or breathing exercises. Airports with yoga rooms, like in San Francisco or Chicago O’Hare, take relaxation to the next level.

Final Tips for a Better Layover

Here are a few bonus ideas to improve your layover experience:

  • Pack essentials like a neck pillow, hand sanitizer, snacks, and a refillable water bottle so you don’t have to scramble to find them.
  • Keep your boarding pass and ID easily accessible, as you’ll need them often.
  • If traveling with kids, bring games, coloring books, or download movies ahead of time to keep them entertained.
  • Layovers don’t have to be dead time. With a little planning and a sense of curiosity, they can become highlights of your trip.

Next time you’re stuck between flights, try one—or all—of these tips to make your layover both fun and memorable. Safe travels!